Belper choirBelCanto makes new member call

Following the success of 2014, when BelCanto created and performed a series of concerts to commemorate the start of World War One and in doing so raised £4,260 for Help for Heroes, they are now looking to recruit new members to develop the choir.

Andrew White, BelCanto’s musical director said: “We have come a long way since our launch in 2009 and last year was a fantastic achievement but now is the time to grow and develop our repertoire to enable us to create entertaining concerts for 2015 and beyond.

“To do this we need more members ”

Chairman, Craig Griffiths added: “The aims of the chorus are simple.

“We intend to make male voice singing an interesting, enjoyable and stimulating experience for men new to group singing and those familiar with traditional male voice choirs but who are looking for something different”

When asked in what way ‘different’, Craig explained that BelCanto is a three- part choir - tenor, baritone and bass and sings very different types of music, from The Beatles to show music to sea shanties, all arranged specifically by Andrew White for the chorus’s particular way of singing, producing a unique sound to entertain audiences.

He also explained that practice nights are a fantastic way to de-stress and have a good time with like-minded guys usually finishing off with a pint at the local!

The benefits to choir members are well publicised. While the feelgood effects of group singing have long been recognized, there is growing evidence that it can have a positive impact on a range of physical and psychological conditions.

Depression, high blood pressure, stress levels and lung disease are all conditions which experts believe can be improved by joining a choir.

New president John Cresswell pointed out that BelCanto try to organise a sensible number of concerts each year and “always look forward to entertaining our audiences as well as, in many cases, raising much needed cash for charity.

“What better reason could there be?”

BelCanto would welcome men of any age or ability. There is no need for experience or an ability to read music.

If you enjoy singing in the bath, shower or anywhere else for that matter come and give it a go.

The male chorus does not audition, just come and sing along.

Please feel free come to one of BelCanto’s practice sessions to see what the ensemble is all about.

Belcanto rehearses each Tuesday evening, from 7.45pm to 9.45pm, in Belper Baptist Church, Bridge St. Belper.

A can-do attitude and a sense of humour is all that’s required.

Alternatively, you can contact Sid Harbey on 0162955478 or Dave Storr on 07876422679 for further information.